Migration: what, where and when?

Charlie

06 Oct 2017

2 minutes

Migration is defined as ‘the seasonal movement of animals from one region to another’ and the Wildebeest migration in Tanzania is one the most spectacular in the world...

Wildebeest

January-March

During the start of the year the Wildebeest stay around the grassy plains of the Southern Serengeti, around the Nduto region, they spend this time rearing their young and although there is limited movement to observe, predatory activity can often be witnessed instead.

Young Wildebeest

March-May

During the rainy season the Wildebeest set off on their epic journey, heading north towards Seronera, the herd separates into smaller groups creating a constant flow of activity, perfect for tracking…

Sayari Camp Wildebeest

June-July

At this time of year the herds will venture through the western corridor of the Serengeti, it is during this part of the journey that they endeavour to cross the Grumeti River, which is one of the most spectacular sights of the whole event….

Olakira Migration CampWildebeest Crossing

August - October

Having escaped the jaws of the Nile crocodiles the Wildebeest continue their journey throughout August and September, crossing the Mara river and reaching the Masai Mara in Kenya by October.

The predator presence along this part of the journey means that casualties are inevitable, with the weak and wounded being carefully selected by the infamous big cats…

November-December

For those that make it through, it is time to set off again, heading south east towards the Ngorongoro Conservation area, these beautiful creatures make their way back to the Ndutu region to calve and begin the cycle all over again. A Wildebeests work is never done!

Olakira Migration Camp

How can I witness this?

There are some spectacular places to stay en-route, to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon we recommend the following:

I hope this blog has given you a better understanding of where and when you can witness the great migration, if you are really lucky you may see some Zebra tagging along for the ride!

Happy travels everyone!

Charlie

Africa Specialist

The iconic cultures, landscapes and of course wildlife found in Africa has been my biggest passion since I was three-years-old when I had my first ever close encounter with a herd of elephants at a watering hole in the Kruger National Park, South Africa. It was therefore no surprise to anyone who knows me that I have ended up in a career that not only allows the growth of my own personal knowledge of all things Africa, but also enable others to visit and experience the magic there for themselves.